Parish Ministry 2021-12-09
2021-12-09
TAGS
Response quality
Questions & Answers
Q1
Partial Answer
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Context
The Archbishop of York spoke about revitalising the parish at the General Synod, and the Church Commissioners have given £130 million since 2017 to support ministry in deprived parishes.
What steps is the Church of England taking to strengthen its parish ministry?
Since 2017, £130 million has been given by the Church Commissioners to support ministry in deprived parishes. Last year saw 591 people recommended for ordained ministry, the highest number for 13 years. Ordinations to stipendiary ministry have increased by 43% since 2013.
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Assessment & feedback
The answer did not address the specific ask about ensuring every community has a locally based, theologically trained and well-resourced cleric.
Response accuracy
Q2
Partial Answer
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Context
There are concerns about a recent consultation that could weaken the ministry in parishes.
The Church of England's vision for future ministry includes 'a Christian presence in every community'. What is being done to ensure every community has a locally based, theologically trained and well-resourced cleric?
I understand my hon. Friend's concern and that of many of our constituents up and down the country. I can only repeat that the Church of England remains committed to a Christian presence in every community.
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Assessment & feedback
The answer did not provide any specific actions or commitments beyond general reassurances.
Response accuracy
Q3
Partial Answer
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Context
There is considerable concern about a recent consultation that could weaken the ministry in parishes.
What can be said to reassure people about the concerns regarding the weakening of ministry due to the recent consultation?
I understand my hon. Friend's concern and that of many of our constituents up and down the country. I can only repeat that the Church of England remains committed to a Christian presence in every community.
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Assessment & feedback
The answer did not provide any specific actions or commitments beyond general reassurances.
Response accuracy
Q4
Partial Answer
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Context
The Government have set aside money for the restoration and maintenance of churches.
Will Northern Ireland receive funding for the restoration and maintenance of churches as part of the same amount allocated to other UK regions?
I speak for the Church of England, but I will make inquiries on behalf of the hon. Gentleman regarding his specific query about Northern Ireland's participation in such funding.
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Assessment & feedback
The answer avoided addressing whether Northern Ireland would receive funds by stating that it was beyond his remit and he would inquire further.
Response accuracy